I had the same experience with Lee customer service as you. I tried a few different species of wood, plywood, and some really hard woods. Tried using a hex screw and wrench on the hold down screws which worked only to find the wood splitting. Finally gave up and threw the useless thing under the bench where it resides today. I have three presses mounted on the bench (24" x 48"). and have sufficient room to use the individually and still have room for cleaning and miscellaneous loading and gunsmith activities.